Physical Activity Patterns of Primary School Teachers in a District in Istanbul, Turkey

Abstract

Abstract Background Physical inactivity (PI) is determined as the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality. Insufficient physical activity is prevalent in Turkey; approximately 4 in 10 adults are physically inactive and have less than 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of PI and the factors associated with it among primary school teachers in a district in Istanbul, Turkey. Methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted in a district in Istanbul, Turkey. Sample size was calculated as 434 assuming a PI prevalence of 70% with a 95% confidence level, margin of error of 0.05 and a design effect of 2. Twenty out of 39 schools were selected randomly. PI was assessed through using International Physical Activity Questionnaire short form. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the variables associated with PI. Results A total of 345 teachers participated in the study (response rate: 79.5%). Among the participants the mean age was 45.6± 8.3 and %74.1 were women. PI prevalence was 49.2% (95%CI: 43.6%-54.7%). PI was significantly associated with having chronic disease (OR: 1.8, 95%CI:1.0-3.0), having children (OR: 2.9, 95%CI:1.5-5.7), using motor vehicles for transportation (OR:4.1, 95%CI:1.5-11.0) and using elevators (OR:4.4, 95%CI:1.7-11.4). Among women, PI was significantly associated with having children (OR: 10.3, %95CI:1.2-87.1) and using elevators (OR: 8.4, 95%CI: 2.3-30.8). Conclusions Approximately half of the teachers were physically inactive. As having children is an important determinant of PI, we need to adopt appropriate conditions so that parents, particularly women can engage in physical activity together with their children. Active transportation and use of elevators should be encouraged. Special attention should be paid to adults having chronic diseases. Key messages PI is highly prevalent among school teachers, particularly among the ones who have chronic diseases. Strategies supporting parents especially women to engage in physical activity together with their children, encouraging active transportation and use of elevators should be implemented.